God treasures a humble heart that acknowledges its dependence on Him.
O LORD, my heart is not proud, nor my eyes haughty; Nor do I involve myself in great matters, Or in things too difficult for me. (v.1) These words emphasize the psalmist’s humble stance before God, highlighting an attitude of reverence and modesty. It is traditionally understood that David, who reigned as the second king of Israel around 1010-970 B.C., wrote this psalm during a time when he was reflecting on the nature of true humility. Far from boasting about his achievements or aspirations, David declares that he has deliberately chosen to set aside any sense of self-exaltation or arrogance to focus on God’s sovereignty instead.
In proclaiming, my heart is not proud (v.1), the psalmist points to an inner posture of submission. Pride often arises from striving for greater recognition or status, yet here the psalmist chooses to uphold a humble spirit. This approach offers a significant reminder for contemporary believers who may find themselves entangled in pursuits of ambition or comparison. It resonates with the New Testament instruction to humble oneself before the Lord so that He may lift us up in due time (James 4:10).
When the writer says, nor do I involve myself in great matters, Or in things too difficult for me (v.1), he signals a conscious awareness of his limitations and a willingness to trust God in areas beyond human control. By refraining from overarching pursuits or insolent eyes, David exemplifies a heart that rests in God’s plan. This mindset anticipates the teaching of Jesus, who called His followers to childlike humility and reliance on the Father (Matthew 18:4).
Set to dark mode
Psalms 131:1 meaning
O LORD, my heart is not proud, nor my eyes haughty; Nor do I involve myself in great matters, Or in things too difficult for me. (v.1) These words emphasize the psalmist’s humble stance before God, highlighting an attitude of reverence and modesty. It is traditionally understood that David, who reigned as the second king of Israel around 1010-970 B.C., wrote this psalm during a time when he was reflecting on the nature of true humility. Far from boasting about his achievements or aspirations, David declares that he has deliberately chosen to set aside any sense of self-exaltation or arrogance to focus on God’s sovereignty instead.
In proclaiming, my heart is not proud (v.1), the psalmist points to an inner posture of submission. Pride often arises from striving for greater recognition or status, yet here the psalmist chooses to uphold a humble spirit. This approach offers a significant reminder for contemporary believers who may find themselves entangled in pursuits of ambition or comparison. It resonates with the New Testament instruction to humble oneself before the Lord so that He may lift us up in due time (James 4:10).
When the writer says, nor do I involve myself in great matters, Or in things too difficult for me (v.1), he signals a conscious awareness of his limitations and a willingness to trust God in areas beyond human control. By refraining from overarching pursuits or insolent eyes, David exemplifies a heart that rests in God’s plan. This mindset anticipates the teaching of Jesus, who called His followers to childlike humility and reliance on the Father (Matthew 18:4).